How to Properly Paint Your Deck

Staining your deck is an excellent way of introducing a vibrant color to your outdoor space. Homeowners prefer to stain their own decks personally. That is because stains are more tolerant to foot traffic than paint.

Nevertheless, painting your decks is not an involving task. Even though painting obscures the grain completely, you will be able to offer your deck surface unmatched personality. Some deck painting ideas include patterns like stripes, checkerboards, and faux rugs.

If you have just created a new deck and deliberating on painting it, you have to apply premium quality primer to every side of the deck board before you begin the installation process. In as much as it is a bit of a hassle to apply primer to both sides of decking boards, it would go a long way toward fending off liquids from underneath your deck, thus keeping your deck boards stable. Otherwise, fluctuations in humidity and soil moisture could lead to expansion and contraction of the deck boards, stressing out the paint and making it peel and chip.

Deck paints may be acrylic or oil-based, both of which are great products. Oil-based paints have the advantage of taking a longer time to dry, making it easier for outdoor applications with lesser possible errors. Acrylic paints additionally have fewer VOCs and are easy to clean.

The other option is stains in solid color. They are similar to paints regarding performance and are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic. However, their colors are somewhat limited, and not as durable as paint.

Deck paints are sold in different labels like porch paint or deck and concrete paint. Deck paint is formulated to tolerate constant foot traffic and other harsh elements. It is much thicker than the regular exterior paints and often includes mold and mildew inhibitors. Most products claim to offer a high level of slip-resistance.

For proper painting and staining of your outdoor deck, follow this simple guide for the best possible results.

Numerous products that are labeled as deck paint are made to restore your old deck surfaces. They seep through, fill small cracks, and hide stains or other minor flaws. For excellent adhesion, proper preparation including the complete removal of any old finish is crucial. The following guide aims at helping you come up with the best results and a long-lasting impression.

Fix any protruding nails and screw heads.

Fill any cracks that are larger than a quarter-inch wide using epoxy putty, and then stain the surface to match the surrounding deck planks.

Use both stain and sealer remover on wood that had previously been finished with stain, paint, or clear sealer.

Apply a deck wash product that would completely clean the entire wood surface, then it to dry for at least forty-eight hours.

Sand any lifted grain or ridges with an 80-grit sandpaper, then clean up any remaining dust.

Shield or cover any adjacent surfaces using painter’s tape or plastic sheeting to prevent the spread of stain to such area.

Cover any nearby plants using plastic bags to prevent damage by paint or stain.

In as much as painting your deck is fun and engaging, it is ideal to seek the services and guidance of a professional who would take you through the entire process, minimizing any possible errors.